Israel imposes travel an on East Africa

In a notice dated June 10, 2026, and circulated to airlines, Israel’s Border Control Department prohibited affected travellers from boarding flights bound for Israel.

“To all airlines, following the outbreak of the Ebola virus, effective from the receipt of this notice, you are prohibited from boarding foreign passengers who meet the criteria specified below on flights bound for Israel,” read part of the notice.

Airlines were ordered to screen passengers before departure and verify whether they had recently stayed in or travelled through the affected countries.

However, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s administration noted that the restrictions do not apply to Israeli citizens or permanent residents. 

“For the avoidance of doubt, this directive does not apply to Israeli citizens or Israeli residents. Your strict compliance with these directives and your cooperation are highly appreciated,” the Border Control Department clarified.

The directive comes as several governments continue to tighten border controls and enhance health screening in response to the Ebola outbreak that has spread across parts of Central Africa.

Nonetheless, the Israeli government has not indicated how long the restrictions will remain in place, but it is anticipated that measures will be reviewed in line with developments surrounding the Ebola outbreak.